Nokia XR 20

The 6GB RAM and 128GB storage variant is priced at around QAR 1,130 at Jarir Bookstore. Online retailers like Ubuy Qatar offer the same model for approximately QAR 1,200 to QAR 1,300. It’s important to note that prices may fluctuate over time and across different sellers.

Nokia XR20 Specifications

Feature	Specification
Display	6.67″ IPS LCD, 1080 x 2400 pixels
Protection	Corning Gorilla Glass Victus
Processor	Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G
RAM	6GB
Storage	128GB (expandable up to 512GB)
Main Camera	48MP Wide + 13MP Ultra-wide
Front Camera	8MP
Battery	4630mAh
Charging	18W Wired, 15W Wireless
5G	Yes
Water Resistance	IP68
Durability	MIL-STD-810H compliant

 

Release Date and Availability

The Nokia XR20 was officially announced on July 27, 2021, and became available for purchase on August 4, 2021. This rugged smartphone was designed to cater to users who need a durable device that can withstand harsh conditions. Since its release, the Nokia XR20 has been available in various markets worldwide, including Qatar, where it can be found in both physical stores and online retailers.

Design and Build Quality

The Nokia XR20 stands out from other smartphones due to its rugged design and exceptional durability. The device features a polymer composite body with aluminum side panels and an aluminum core, making it highly resistant to drops and impacts. The phone’s display is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass Victus, which offers improved scratch and shatter resistance compared to previous generations.

One of the most impressive features of the Nokia XR20 is its MIL-STD-810H certification, which means it has passed rigorous military-grade tests for durability. The phone can withstand drops from up to 1.8 meters onto hard surfaces and can survive underwater at depths of up to 1.5 meters for up to one hour, thanks to its IP68 water and dust resistance rating.

Despite its rugged build, the Nokia XR20 maintains a relatively sleek appearance for a durable smartphone. It’s available in two colors: Ultra Blue and Granite. The device also features a programmable emergency button, which can be customized to perform various functions or call for help in case of emergencies.

Display and Performance

The Nokia XR20 boasts a 6.67-inch IPS LCD display with a resolution of 1080 x 2400 pixels. This Full HD+ screen offers vibrant colors and good visibility, even in bright sunlight, thanks to its 550 nits of brightness. The display also supports a 60Hz refresh rate, which, while not as smooth as some higher-end models, provides a decent viewing experience for most users.

Under the hood, the Nokia XR20 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G processor. While this chipset is not the most powerful in the market, it offers good performance for everyday tasks and light gaming. The 5G capabilities ensure that users can take advantage of faster network speeds where available.

The device comes with 6GB of RAM, which is sufficient for smooth multitasking and app switching. The 128GB of internal storage provides ample space for apps, photos, and videos. For users who need more storage, the Nokia XR20 supports expandable storage up to 512GB via a microSD card.

Camera System

The Nokia XR20 features a dual-camera setup on the rear, consisting of a 48MP main camera and a 13MP ultra-wide camera. This combination allows users to capture a variety of scenes, from detailed close-ups to expansive landscapes.

The main camera performs well in good lighting conditions, producing sharp and colorful images. The ultra-wide lens is useful for capturing more of the scene in a single shot, making it ideal for group photos or scenic views.

For selfies and video calls, the Nokia XR20 is equipped with an 8MP front-facing camera. While not the highest resolution available, it’s capable of taking decent self-portraits and is more than adequate for video conferencing.

The camera app on the Nokia XR20 includes several useful features, such as Night mode for low-light photography, Portrait mode for bokeh effects, and Cinema mode for more cinematic video capture. The device can also record 1080p video at 60 frames per second, which is suitable for most casual video needs.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the standout features of the Nokia XR20 is its impressive battery life. The device is equipped with a 4630mAh battery, which can easily last up to two days with moderate use. This long-lasting battery is particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts or professionals who may not have frequent access to charging points.

When it comes to charging, the Nokia XR20 supports 18W wired fast charging, which can replenish the battery relatively quickly. Additionally, the device is compatible with 15W wireless charging, offering convenient cable-free charging options. The inclusion of wireless charging is a nice touch for a rugged smartphone in this price range.

Software and User Experience

The Nokia XR20 runs on Android 11 out of the box, with a promise of three years of OS upgrades and four years of monthly security updates. This commitment to long-term software support is a significant advantage, ensuring that the device remains secure and up-to-date for years to come.

Nokia’s approach to Android is close to stock, offering a clean and bloatware-free user interface. This results in a smooth and intuitive user experience, free from unnecessary apps or heavy customizations that can slow down the device.

Connectivity and Additional Features

As a modern smartphone, the Nokia XR20 offers a wide range of connectivity options. It supports 5G networks, enabling faster data speeds where available. The device also includes Wi-Fi 6 compatibility, Bluetooth 5.1, and NFC for contactless payments.

One unique feature of the Nokia XR20 is its programmable emergency button, which can be customized to perform various functions or call for help in case of emergencies. This can be particularly useful for outdoor enthusiasts or those working in potentially hazardous environments.

The phone also includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is becoming increasingly rare in modern smartphones. This allows users to connect their favorite wired headphones without the need for an adapter.

Comparison with Other Nokia Models

When compared to other Nokia models, the XR20 stands out for its rugged design and durability features. The Nokia C12 Pro, for instance, is a more budget-friendly option but lacks the advanced durability features and 5G capabilities of the XR20.

The Nokia X20 5G offers similar 5G support but doesn’t have the same level of durability as the XR20.

The Nokia X30 5G, released after the XR20, offers some improvements in terms of processor performance and camera capabilities. However, it doesn’t match the XR20’s rugged build and water resistance rating. For users who prioritize durability over cutting-edge specs, the XR20 remains a compelling choice.

Comparison with Competitors

In the rugged smartphone market, the Nokia XR20 competes with devices like the CAT S62 Pro, the Ulefone Armor 11T 5G, the Galaxy XCover Pro, and the Galaxy XCover6 Pro. The XR20 generally offers a better balance between durability and mainstream smartphone features, making it more appealing to a broader range of users.

When compared to non-rugged smartphones in a similar price range, such as the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G or the OnePlus Nord 2T, the XR20 may lag behind in terms of processing power and camera capabilities. However, it significantly outperforms these devices in terms of durability and water resistance.

Who Should Consider the Nokia XR20?

The Nokia XR20 is an excellent choice for several types of users:

1. Outdoor Enthusiasts: Hikers, campers, and adventure sports enthusiasts will appreciate the XR20’s durability and water resistance. The long battery life is also a significant advantage for extended outdoor activities.
2. Construction Workers and Field Technicians: Professionals who work in challenging environments will benefit from the XR20’s rugged build and ability to withstand drops and harsh conditions.
3. Clumsy Individuals: For those who frequently drop their phones or are prone to accidents, the XR20’s durability can provide peace of mind and potentially save money on repairs or replacements.
4. Parents: The XR20 can be a good option for children or teenagers who may not be as careful with their devices, thanks to its robust construction.
5. Travelers: The combination of durability, long battery life, and 5G capabilities makes the XR20 a reliable companion for frequent travelers.

Pros and Cons of the Nokia XR20

Pros:

1. Exceptional durability with MIL-STD-810H certification and IP68 water resistance
2. Long battery life with up to two days of use
3. 5G support for future-proof connectivity
4. Wireless charging capability
5. Clean Android experience with promised long-term software support
6. Programmable emergency button for added safety

Cons:

1. Mid-range processor may not satisfy power users
2. Camera performance, while decent, is not on par with flagship devices
3. Relatively heavy at 248 grams
4. 60Hz refresh rate display may feel less smooth compared to higher-end models